WESTCLIFF: One of south Essex's oldest shops, which was on the verge of shutting down, has reopened.

Neil Chaney 37, stepped in with an offer for Kynastons Ironmongers that has traded household items and DIY goods since 1906, when the former owner announced closure.

Chaney said: "I am also a wholesaler and we have been providing the store with products for at least 20 years... I decided to put an offer, and it was accepted, so I am proud to say one of the oldest stores will continue."

The refurbished store has a wider stock range and Chaney expects to compete successfully with nearby B&Q and Homebase.